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A Beginner's Guide to Website Wireframing

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At GreenMellen, we believe in implementing tried-and-true processes for each of our clients’ projects for better outcomes. For example, our website development process consists of 14 steps to complete a functional, modern website that can stand the test of time. A step we never skip is wireframing, as this step provides structure and flow to each of the web pages and gives our clients a rough idea of what their site will look like.

Let us give you an introduction to wireframes and why it’s an essential step for designing digital marketing pieces.

What the Heck Are Wireframes?

In short, wireframes are merely skeletons of the site without graphics or copy. To give you a real-life example, here’s a wireframe of our homepage:

Notice how there are no colors, pictures, or font styles on the wireframe – just shapes and sections for how the page elements, navigation, and everything else will be structured for your website. Wireframes are not just for main web pages; they’re also useful for emails, landing pages and digital/print ads.

An architect would never build a home without a blueprint, as these plans show the structural placement of your plumbing, electrical and walls without any interior design considerations. Wireframes are essentially blueprints for your website, and we believe that no professional website design agency should ever build a site without one.

Why Wireframing is Essential to Web Design

By wireframing your website before it gets designed and developed, you avoid the following issues:

  • Unorganization and poor user experience of your site. The reason why our website process takes 14 steps and design is toward the end of that process is because functionality and organization are the most essential features for any website. Wireframing allows us to have a clear idea of how this site is going to flow, and if a site doesn’t have wireframes, it could jeopardize the site’s organization.
  • Developing something ineffective or not in line with your goals. When you see a wireframe of your website, it’s usually the first visual draft of how it’s going to look. If you see something that’s not in line with your goals, this can easily be changed to your liking. Without wireframes, you wouldn’t see your site until it’s in staging and any changes you make to it can cost you time and money. By getting on the same page with your web design agency during the wireframing stage, you’ll ensure your site is being built with your objectives in mind.
  • Focusing on the wrong things. When we present logos to clients, we always send them grayscale and without photos or full color. This allows the client to focus on the shapes and hierarchy used versus the color, which is added after they approve a logo concept. The same principle is applied to wireframing, as your focus should be dedicated to a site’s structure versus the photos, colors, and content.
  • Wasted time. This is the most significant benefit of wireframes, and this is tied into the other points above. When everyone is on the same page with your wireframes, the designer knows where to add the designed elements, the developer understands what they’re building, the copywriter can craft content around what’s been agreed upon, and the final product will happen much quicker. It’s a win-win for both the client and the team who’s making it happen.

Keep in mind, while these are all great benefits of wireframing, these are only some of the wonderful things wireframes help you avoid.

With the Internet getting more and more competitive every day, wireframing your website is something you cannot skip before development. If you want any questions about wireframing or want to work with us on your site redesign, let’s grab a cup of coffee.

About the Author

Brooke Desmond

Communications Manager
With a passion for all things digital marketing, Brooke aims to give a unique perspective on the latest trends and ideas in this ever-changing space.

View Brooke's Profile

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